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flag California creates $4M civil rights office to fight school antisemitism, sparking debate over academic freedom.

flag California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law creating a new Office of Civil Rights to combat antisemitism in public schools, appointing a coordinator to develop staff training and recommend policies. flag The office, costing about $4 million annually, will work with the State Board of Education to address anti-Jewish discrimination, responding to rising incidents including harassment and vandalism, with 860 antisemitic acts reported in U.S. schools in 2024. flag While supported by Jewish advocacy groups and the Anti-Defamation League, critics warn the law’s requirement for “factually accurate” instruction could chill classroom discussions on complex topics like the Israel-Palestine conflict, potentially limiting academic freedom and encouraging political interference in teaching. flag The final law no longer explicitly references the Middle East conflict, but concerns remain about its impact on open dialogue. flag Similar legislation is being considered in other states amid national tensions over antisemitism and education.

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